. >> turn equity into tax free cash. >> give you tax free cash. >> they're not being told. about the downside. >> reporter: right now in america, 57 seniors in reverse mortgages are in danger of losing their homes. nearly 10% foreclosure rate, 4 times higher than traditional mortgages. the department of housing and urban development will recommend congress prohibit large lump sum payments and recommend seniors be careful with reverse mortgages. is the reverse mortgage the last option? >> i really think it should be, absolutely. >> reporter: an option. >> it is a wonderful house. >> reporter: linda mcmahon regrets taking. >> i hope somebody enjoys it. >> reporter: jim avila, abc news, washington. >> you have to feel for her, too. here's the problem in a nutshell. unlike traditional mortgage. make your payments. equity. a reverse mortgage pays out equity in your home as cash. increases your debt and decreases your equity. that's the problem in a nutshell. that's how the woman got into the situation she did. it sounds good, but like with everything, there is a downside. commer